The Sultanate of Oman, represented by the Environment Authority, recently celebrated World Environment Day on 5th June with the theme “Our Land, Our Future”. The event focused on restoring lands, resisting desertification, and building drought resistance strategies. It aims to raise awareness about environmental issues, encourage communities to protect the environment, and strengthen environmental policies at various levels. This year, the focus is on engaging young people in environmental activities and promoting international cooperation to address global environmental challenges. World Environment Day, organized by the United Nations Environment Programme, serves as a platform for global public awareness on environmental issues and is celebrated by millions worldwide.
The Environment Authority in Oman is actively working to combat desertification and land degradation. In 2020, they launched a national initiative to plant 10 million trees to increase the green area in the country, mitigate desertification, and restore degraded lands. The Authority has established nurseries for planting wild trees in all governorates, including the Green Belt nurseries in Dhofar. In addition to tree planting initiatives, the Authority conducts awareness campaigns targeting society members to highlight the importance of farming and preserving green spaces. Oman has a national plan to combat desertification that is updated every 10 years, with the current plan covering the period from 2018 to 2030. There is ongoing collaboration with the Arab Organization for Development to review and update the plan to combat drought.
By actively participating in World Environment Day and implementing initiatives to combat desertification and land degradation, Oman is demonstrating its commitment to environmental sustainability. The national initiative to plant 10 million trees not only increases the green area but also helps in mitigating the effects of desertification and restoring degraded lands. The engagement of young people in environmental activities is crucial for building a sustainable future and ensuring the protection of the environment for generations to come. Through awareness campaigns and educational programs, the Environment Authority is encouraging society members to play their part in preserving green spaces and taking proactive measures to combat environmental challenges.
The celebration of World Environment Day highlights the importance of international cooperation in addressing global environmental issues. By collaborating with other countries, Oman can leverage shared knowledge and resources to develop effective strategies for combating desertification and promoting sustainable land management practices. The Sultanate’s participation in initiatives such as the national plan to combat desertification underscores its commitment to environmental stewardship and sustainable development. By working together with regional and international partners, Oman can contribute to a collective effort to safeguard the environment and ensure the well-being of both current and future generations.
As the host of World Environment Day in 2024, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia has an opportunity to showcase its environmental conservation efforts and inspire other nations to take action. Oman’s participation in the event reflects its dedication to raising awareness about environmental issues and fostering a culture of environmental responsibility within society. By engaging young people in environmental activities and promoting sustainable land management practices, Oman is laying the foundation for a greener and more resilient future. Through continued efforts to combat desertification and land degradation, Oman is taking proactive steps to protect its natural resources and preserve the environment for future generations. With a renewed focus on restoring lands, resisting desertification, and building drought resistance strategies, Oman is paving the way for a more sustainable and environmentally conscious future.
